Best Time to Visit Nikko

The best times to visit Nikko lie from late March to May in spring, and late September to mid- November in autumn. 

 See More: Nikko Weather 

Late March - May in Spring 

Thanks to the region’s wide range of elevations, visitors can enjoy a relatively longer sakura blossom season: from late March to May. For central Nikko, the peak sakura blossom viewing period ranges from late March to early April. Besides, unlike Tokyo’s overcrowded sakura viewing spots, Nikko offers a relatively quieter experience, with hidden cherry blossom sites where you might even enjoy the blossoms almost to yourself.

What’s more, during this period, the weather is pleasantly mild, with moderate rainfall, making it a comfortable time for various sightseeing activities. 

Sakura by Lake

Late September - Mid-November in Autumn

Autumn is Nikko’s most popular and busiest season, especially from late September to mid-November, the peak fall foliage view period. Its vast natural scenery transforms into a spectacular painting of red, gold and orange foliage, drawing visitors from across Japan and beyond. There are countless ways to enjoy the fall foliage view: admire it coupled with powerful Kegon Falls, walk across the brown grassland of Senjogahara, soak in an outdoor bath at Kinugawa Onsen while surrounded by colorful leaves, or take a boat on Lake Chuzenji for sweeping mountain views. 

Another bonus is that Nikko sees limited rainfall and mild temperatures during this period. Even if on an occasional rainy day, light showers can actually enhance the mystical feeling of the shrines and mountains. 

Colorful Fall Leaves

Peak Season in Nikko: August, October and November 

The fall foliage view is the most attractive highlight of Nikko, so you’ll see the most crowded attractions and extremely high travel costs in October and November. If you are only available during this period, try to avoid visiting Nikko on weekends. 

Just a reminder, late September in Nikko offers an early autumn view of the leaves, which is relatively more peaceful and cost-effective. 

August is also a peak month in Nikko. With a comparatively cooler climate, Nikko becomes a popular summer heat escape around Tokyo. Plus, as it coincides with the summer vacation of most countries, you’ll find numerous international tourists flowing into Nikko. Moreover, the Obon Festival, one of the major public festivals in Japan, falls in August, leading to a surge of domestic travel. Late August is much better as many local tourists fade away since schools usually start at this time. 

Crowded Attraction

Crowded God Bridge

Most Budget-friendly Time to Visit Nikko: January and February 

Nikko experiences the coldest and driest weather during these months, so there are only a few visitors here. However, this is exactly when Nikko offers the most cost-effective experience for travelers. You are highly recommended to visit Kegon Falls or Ryuzu Falls, as they are frozen due to low temperatures in the mountain area, which creates a spectacular ice waterfall scene. Besides, the Kamakura Festival is a highlight: you can enjoy romantic light shows, and about 800 little snowy caves are illuminated by candles. 

Winter View

Travel Tips:

1. It’s always helpful for visitors to check the forecast prior to pack their clothes and plan travel schedules, especially during season transitional months. 
2. Due to the big temperature difference between central Nikko and suburban areas, you are advised to prepare an extra layer if you plan to include two areas in one day. 
3. In winter months, scenic spots, restaurants and stores would shorten their opening hours. Therefore, it’s best to check it in advance and prioritize key spots as much as possible.